Emporia State Pitcher Earns Co-MIAA Honors

Sophomore Colby Deaver records 10 strikeouts in six shutout innings

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Emporia State sophomore pitcher Colby Deaver has been named the Co-MIAA Pitcher of the Week for the second time this season. Deaver struck out 10 batters over six shutout innings in a win over the Cougars, allowing just three hits and one walk.

Why it matters

Deaver's strong start to the season, with 26 strikeouts in his first three games, is an encouraging sign for the Emporia State baseball program as they prepare to open MIAA conference play.

The details

Deaver picked up the win last weekend with six shutout innings, striking out 10 batters including two innings where he struck out the side. He allowed just three hits and one walk in the start.

  • Deaver's 26 strikeouts through his first three starts are the most since Jake Barton struck out 29 to begin the 2020 season.
  • The Hornets open MIAA play Friday at Arkansas-Fort Smith.

The players

Colby Deaver

A sophomore pitcher for the Emporia State Hornets baseball team.

Jake Barton

A former Emporia State pitcher who struck out 29 batters to begin the 2020 season, a record Deaver is approaching.

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What’s next

The Hornets will look to continue Deaver's strong start to the season as they open MIAA conference play on Friday against Arkansas-Fort Smith.

The takeaway

Deaver's impressive early-season performance is a positive sign for the Emporia State baseball program, which will hope to build on his success as they begin conference play.